Translation and Meaning of: 風呂 - furo

On this page, we will study the meaning of the Japanese word 風呂 (furo) and its translation into English. Let's see their different meanings, example phrases, explanations, etymology and the similar words.

Romaji: furo

Kana: ふろ

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n3, jlpt-n5

風呂

Translation / Meaning: bath

Meaning in English: bath

Definition: Fill a bathtub with hot water to wash the body.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (風呂) furo

The Japanese word 「風呂」 (furo) is widely known to mean "bathtub" or "ofuro". It refers not only to a simple place for bathing but also to an essential part of Japanese culture, where the bath transcends mere hygiene and becomes a ritual of relaxation and purification of the body and mind.

Etymologically, 「風呂」 has an interesting composition. The first kanji 「風」 (fu) means "wind" or "style," while the second kanji 「呂」 (ro) refers to "spine" or "bath." This combination of characters may seem unusual at first glance, but historically, the word has its roots in ancient bathing methods where steam was a crucial element, associating the idea of wind (air flow) in the bathing environment.

Historically, the practice of bathing in 「風呂」 dates back to the Nara period (710-794) in Japan. Initially, baths were part of Buddhist religious rituals, emphasizing their spiritual and communal importance. Over time, the concept evolved into the famous ofurōs and sentōs, which are public bathhouses. The habit of immersing oneself in hot waters has become a daily and valued practice in Japanese society, contributing to well-being and social interaction.

Furthermore, the term 「風呂」 has found variations in the Japanese language, reflecting different contexts and types of baths. For example, 「銭湯」 (sentō) refers to paid public baths, while 「温泉」 (onsen) is used for natural hot springs, which are abundant in Japan due to geothermal activity. These variants provide a broader view of the cultural significance of bathing in Japan, revealing historical and social aspects that go beyond a simple daily bath.

Synonyms and similar words

湯船 (yubune) - Bathtub or hot water container for bathing.
お風呂 (ofuro) - General term for bathroom or bath in Japanese, which can also include the bathtub.
入浴 (nyuuyoku) - Act of taking a bath, especially in a bathtub.
風呂場 (furoba) - Area or room intended for bathing, such as a bathroom or public bath.
湯殿 (yudono) - It refers to a bathing place, especially in traditional or historical contexts.
湯屋 (yoya) - Typical to designate a bathhouse, like an onsen, where people go to relax in hot water.